Transitioning Child Health Clinical Content From Direct Care to Online Instruction.

Abstract

The global pandemic of 2020 forced preli-censure nursing degree programs to rapidly reevaluate clinical teaching methodologies. To maintain high educational standards with minimal anxiety and disruption for students, a child health teaching team developed an innovative revised plan for facilitation of clinical experiences within the virtual learning environment. Experienced faculty employed a series of clinical learning activities in the online environment using existing virtual simulations, along with new innovations including a digital escape room, unfolding case studies, and blended prioritization simulations. Information gleaned from student evaluations identified self-reported increases in clinical reasoning, prioritization, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students appreciated a more relaxed pace that allowed for more time to think through the processes. Virtual activities can be as effective as in-person clinical learning methodologies. Integrating virtual activities into clinical curricula can be a viable option, especially in areas where clinical placement is limited. [J Nurs Educ. 2021;60(3):177-179.].